How to Remove the Center Armrest of Volkswagen Tiguan?
4 Answers
Open the armrest and remove the internal screws using a screwdriver. Keep the removed screws and clips safe to avoid losing them. Pull the handbrake to its highest position and pry open the plastic cover on one side of the handbrake. The cover is not secured with screws. You can use the gaps as leverage points. Once the cover is lifted, disconnect the three clip connectors and remove the cigarette lighter cover. Shift the gear lever to N (Neutral) and lift it upwards to separate it from the gear core. Then, use a plastic pry tool to remove the gear lever cover. Remove the self-tapping screws of the armrest, which are located under the gear lever cover. Lift the rear part upwards to detach the armrest.
Last time I took apart the Touareg center console because it was too dirty and needed cleaning. First, inspect the inside of the console—there might be small screws at the bottom or sides, so use a Phillips screwdriver to remove them. Then gently lift the lid upwards without using excessive force, as Touareg consoles often have clips securing them; be careful not to break them. If there are wires connected to the cigarette lighter or USB ports, unplug them first to avoid damage. Once the lid is off, the entire console might still be held by clips on the central tunnel—use a plastic pry tool to carefully loosen it from the edges to avoid scratching the interior. Remember to wear gloves during the process to prevent cuts. After cleaning or repairing, reassemble everything in place, ensuring the clips snap back securely and the screws are tightened. When doing it yourself, pay attention to the model year—newer Touaregs have minor changes, while older models might be more complex. It’s best to check online videos for confirmation to avoid mistakes.
I enjoy tinkering with cars, and removing the center console isn't difficult but requires attention to detail. First, prepare your tools: a Phillips screwdriver and a plastic pry bar—avoid metal tools to prevent scratching the plastic. Crouch down by the passenger seat, pull down the console lid, and check for hidden screws, usually located in the bottom corners. Once unscrewed, support the console from below, lift slightly, and pull outward until you feel the clips loosen, then remove the lid. The console itself is often secured to the sides of the center tunnel—gently wiggle the edges to release the clips. If there are any wiring connections, like lights or charging ports, disconnect them first to avoid short circuits. Take your time; the Tiguan's structure is relatively simple, and it should take under ten minutes. Make sure the clips are intact when reassembling for a secure fit. As a bonus tip, regularly clean the console to prevent odors, and consider adding an organizer for extra storage while you're at it.
As someone who frequently works on car repairs, I must emphasize that removing the center console should not be taken lightly. The design of the Volkswagen Tiguan's clips is prone to breaking, so it's essential to have spare parts ready in case of damage during removal. First, locate the screw positions, which are usually inside the console. After unscrewing them, avoid yanking the cover forcefully—it's secured with plastic hooks. Gently lift it to the appropriate angle to release it. The console body is clipped onto the side beams; use a soft cloth-padded wrench to gently twist and unlock it. If there are wiring connections, disconnect the battery first to prevent short circuits and electrical damage. Remember, avoid forcing the removal to prevent plastic damage or causing rattles. Beginners are advised to work in pairs for easier clip alignment. Also, consider the reason for removal—if it's for repairing the cigarette lighter, for example, confirm the issue is indeed inside the console before proceeding to avoid unnecessary disassembly and added risks.
